The LEGO Architecture Landmark Series started in 2008 and consists primarily of models that represent the world's most famous structures. Initially the sets were focused on major cities in the United States such as models of the Sears Tower, John Hancock Center, the Empire State Building, and the Seattle Space Needle followed by international landmarks including Burj Khalifa, Brandenburg Gate, the Sydney Opera House and dozens more. Within the subtheme the scale of the sets differ widely.
2013 LEGO Sets
2013 included a number of notable theme releases including the Legends of Chima, The Lone Ranger, Galaxy Squad, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Jake and the Never Land Pirates and Mickey Mouse & Friends. The flagship release was Legends of Chima with the coincided premier of The Legends of Chima TV Show on Cartoon Network. However, LEGO unfortunately did retire a number of well-loved themes such as Monster Fighters, SpongeBob SquarePants, Cars and Dino. One interesting note is that in 2013, LEGO started changing from 4-digit set numbers to 5-digit set numbers. 2013 was also the year that LEGO release the exclusive Mr. Gold in its collectable minifigures blind bags. This event single handled created one of the greatest investment opportunities for collections LEGO has seen.